Ten man Inter Milan slip into Champions League Final

Nobody can deny the greatness of Jose Mourinho now.  Love him or hate him there is no denying how he prepares his squad and there will be no greater evidence than today when ten man Inter held off the most creative side in the world on their home field.

The emphasis was on Barcelona who needed to erase a 3-1 defeat in Italy last week.  They needed to score goals and an electric Spanish crowd spurred them onward.  Unfortunately, in the opening half theatrics often overshadowed the match itself.  Maicon going down anytime he felt a heavy breath.  Time wasting at its best. Then a simple hand to the face of Barca's Sergio Busquets sent him sprawling to the ground rolling in agony.  Even though Thiago Motta barely touched him, the referee was convinced of major foul play and sent Motta to the dressing room with a red card.  Jose Mourinho sarcastically clapped for the theatrics as his side would be asked to survive an hour against wave after wave of Barcelona attack.

The second half was one of electricity and drama as Barca tried to find a way through the disciplined Inter Milan defense.  The Italians were supremely organized and Barca settled for several long range shots that never troubled keeper Julio Cesar.  Finally in the 84th minute, Gerard Pique spun and fired home to give Barcelona life and set up a final few minutes of utmost drama.

It was not to be though, as Inter Milan held on for a famous victory as their ten man squad collapsed in celebration and relief at the final whistle.  Jose Mourinho raced onto the field in ecstacy and Inter earned their first trip to a Champions League final in 38 years.